Grow light question

[OrchidTraci]

I have my HID/MD fixture up and running. I love it and absolutly cannot believe the results I'm already getting from it. The question is:
I was given a free upgrade. In short, I was shipped a glass to put on the lamp, rather than open bulbs. If that makes any sense. Would the glass help keep it a bit cooler, possibly helping in the humidity levels? Or should I just leave it alone and not use the glass. This free upgrade is nice, but not so sure it would be better... :check:

[Liz]

Traci, I think the purpose of the glass is to protect the light bulb from possible water spritz that would damage it. I think I read that somewhere, but I might be completely wrong.
Liz

[ncclimber]

Traci, It is to keep the metal halide bulb from exploding due to water overspray. I would put the glass on If I were you. It might help keep the temps down a bit, but will give you a little piece of mind and keep glass from exploding all over yuor room.

[OrchidTraci]

Thanks guys. As you can see, I'm pretty about this issue. But, that does make sense!

[sgratrix]

Tracey, if you get a chance please post a picture of your set up with light, would love to see it.

[OrchidTraci]

Tracey, if you get a chance please post a picture of your set up with light, would love to see it.

I posted a photo under "kodak moment", it is titled something like "It's almost finished". I am in need of about 90 more plants, my area is huge now!

[uncasteeb]

I posted a photo under "kodak moment", it is titled something like "It's almost finished". I am in need of about 90 more plants, my area is huge now!

With your setup buying seedlings could be a good option.These will grow strongly through the winter & probably flower next summer/fall.
Growth rate in my growroom is accelerating , a Phal spike seems to be growing about 1" a day

[OrchidTraci]

With your setup buying seedlings could be a good option.These will grow strongly through the winter & probably flower next summer/fall.
Growth rate in my growroom is accelerating , a Phal spike seems to be growing about 1" a day

I am in totaly disbelief how fast my plants are growing. A PB on a brassia didn't do much all summer (maybe because there hasn't been a summer?) and it has grown at least 20 percent bigger! Amazing.

[LJA]

Traci, definitely use the glass coverings. Also, make sure you don't touch the bulbs with your bare hands when you're changing them--the oils from your fingertips can cause hot spots that make the bulbs explode too. Glad to hear your plants are thriving under those!

[Aerides]

Traci, yes - the glass will *substantially* reduce the heat projected down upon your plants. A wonderful bonus to the safety benefits discussed above.

John